leg-of-mutton

or leg-o'-mut·ton

[ leg-uh-muht-n, -uhv- ]

adjective

1. having the triangular shape of a leg of mutton:

   leg-of-mutton sail; a dress with leg-of-mutton sleeves.

leg-of-mutton

noun

1. modifier (of a sail, sleeve, etc) tapering sharply or having a triangular profile

Word History and Origins

Origin of leg-of-mutton¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

While the two boys were talking they had adjusted the mast and rigged the little leg-of-mutton sail.

From Project Gutenberg

The word has an Early Victorian sound that suggests side-whiskers and leg-of-mutton trousers.

From Project Gutenberg

The sails most commonly used on canoes are the leg-of-mutton sail and the standing lug.

From Project Gutenberg

A leg-of-mutton sail requires a tall mast, which some canoeists regard as a serious objection.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a keg in the boat and a mast with a leg-of-mutton sail.

From Project Gutenberg